Social Anxiety

Frequently people experience the feeling of being self-conscious or nervous in social situations. This however, can become a problem when it interferes with everyday functioning, for instance; when one avoids particular places or situations because of the feelings that they may induce.

Social Anxiety Therapy deals with the following:

Situations, which may trigger social anxiety

Interacting with new people

Attending social situations or parties

Circumstances or events where one is the centre of attention

Scenarios where one is watched by others whilst doing something

Engaging in small talk

Public speaking

Speaking at a meeting

Making a speech

Settings where one is spontaneously called upon to respond in front of a group

Performing

Receiving criticism

Holding conversations with individuals in authority or those deemed as important or in a position of power

Making phone calls

Taking exams

Eating or drinking in public settings

Physical symptoms one might experience:

Sweating

Clammy palms

Trembling

Tension in muscles

Dry mouth or throat

Blushing

Palpitations - changes in heart rate

Dizzy spells

Nausea

Changes in breathing

Tightness in the chest

Rigidity

Difficulty sleeping

Feelings, one might experience:

Fear

of being observed

of feeling embarrassed

of being criticised

of others noticing particular symptoms or behaviour

worry for hours, days or months about a upcoming event, situation or possible scenario

Behaviours, which may accompanying social anxiety:

Avoid eye contact

Avoid initiating conversation

Avoid certain situations or settings

Escape from situations or settings

Misuse of alcohol or substances

Dysfunctional use of positive thoughts

Thoughts, which may accompany social anxiety:

'I can't do this'

'I can't handle this situation'

'If something goes wrong I won't know how to handle it'

'I won't know what to do'

'I won't be able to cope'

'I will feel helpless'

'I will feel intimidated'

'I won't know what to say'

'People will think I am incompetent/stupid/not good enough'

The integration of the two most powerful and effective psychological therapies, namely cognitive behavioural therapy and clinical hypnotherapy uncovered as the most evidence based therapeutic interventions available today in the field of psychology and psychotherapy.

This integration referred to as cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy, found to be the most effective treatment for anxiety, stress, panic attacks and social anxiety.

Sessions are between fifty minutes and an hour in duration and consist of primarily cognitive behavioural therapy techniques and strategies, psychology, psychotherapy, hypnosis and mindfulness when it is pertinent. You can meet with for (no obligation) initial consultation exploring the challenges you are experiencing. By the end of this consultation, I will be in a position to inform you how many sessions are recommended and the various techniques and strategies that will inform your treatment plan.